Office Surgeries: Endometrial Ablation, Etc.

What is endometrial ablation?

The procedure of endometrial ablation involves denaturing your uterine lining. It helps reduce abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding in just one short procedure.

Your heavy bleeding is likely due to changing hormones or because of fibroids or polyps that develop in your uterus. The endometrium is the lining of your uterus. With ablation, this lining or a layer of it is removed, eliminating bleeding altogether or significantly reducing it.

Who is a candidate for endometrial ablation?

If you have abnormal bleeding and desire a restoration of control over your life, endometrial ablation may be the right solution. Usually, the procedure is recommended when lifestyle changes and medication fail to resolve your bleeding. Bleeding can disrupt your work and daily life. Plus, heavy uterine bleeding can cause you to suffer from iron-deficient anemia, a health problem in its own right.

Endometrial ablation does mean you can’t safely carry a baby, so if you aren’t done adding to your family, Dr. Kennedy can help find another solution.

If you have an active infection, IUD, or possible uterine cancer, you cannot undergo endometrial ablation.

What happens during endometrial ablation?

An endometrial ablation isn’t a surgical procedure. It’s performed with tools inserted through your vagina. These tools usually  transmit heat or cold temperatures to destroy a layer of the lining to discourage future shedding and bleeding during your cycle.  

You may be asked to take an anti-inflammatory medication a few hours before your appointment and you will have a pregnancy test before the procedure.

Dr. Kennedy provides you with local anesthesia for the cervical tissue, so you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. 

Some women have cramping in the hours after endometrial ablation, but this can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medications and a heating pad. You will need to avoid baths and pools for the day following endometrial ablation (you can shower). Refrain from sexual intercourse and tampon use for about two weeks post-procedure.

To learn how endometrial ablation can help ease your heavy uterine bleeding, call the office of Karen E. Kennedy, MD, or schedule a consultation using this website.